Sanwo-Olu honest leadership message highlights accountability and transparency at Lagos Anglican synod amid Nigeria’s challenges

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Monday urged public office holders to embrace honesty, transparency and accountability, describing governance as a sacred responsibility that must stand the test of time.

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The Sanwo-Olu honest leadership message was delivered at the opening of the second session of the 36th Synod of the Diocese of Lagos, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), held at Our Saviour’s Church in Tafawa Balewa Square. The governor was accompanied by Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat.

Babajide Sanwo-Olu said leadership should be approached as stewardship, warning that public office carries both temporal and enduring consequences. Babajide Sanwo-Olu stressed that integrity remains the cornerstone of effective governance.

“Public office is a stewardship that will be examined both in time and in eternity,” Babajide Sanwo-Olu said, underscoring the moral weight of leadership.

Reflecting on the synod theme, which focused on doctrines of salvation and end-time accountability, Babajide Sanwo-Olu described the discussion as timely in light of Nigeria’s socio-economic pressures, including rising living costs and public anxiety.

Babajide Sanwo-Olu argued that ethical leadership anchored on accountability transforms governance from personal gain into a public trust, adding that without such principles, leadership risks becoming self-serving.

The governor also highlighted progress under the THEMES Plus Agenda, citing developments in transportation, healthcare, education and economic growth, with a focus on sustainability and inclusion.

Babajide Sanwo-Olu commended President Bola Tinubu for ongoing national reforms and called for continued prayers for the country’s leadership.

In his remarks, Diocesan Bishop Ifedola Okupevi praised the Lagos State Government’s achievements and urged Christians to play an active role in the democratic process ahead of the 2027 elections.

Ifedola Okupevi called on citizens to reject vote-selling, violence and divisive politics, emphasising the role of faith and moral responsibility in nation-building.

A notable moment during the event saw the presentation of gifts to Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Obafemi Hamzat and Special Adviser on Christian Matters, Bukola Adeleke, in recognition of their support for the Church.

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The Sanwo-Olu honest leadership message reflects growing calls for accountability and ethical governance as Nigeria navigates complex economic and social challenges.